Seattle takes steps to revitalize downtown areas plagued by crime and blight with the installation of festive lights along Third Avenue and in Chinatown-International District. The project aims to create a safer and more inviting environment, encourage investment, and celebrate citywide events.
Two of Seattle 's most crime-ridden areas are experiencing a transformation thanks to the installation of festive lights that now illuminate entire blocks of the city. At a celebratory gathering Wednesday evening, Mayor Bruce Harrell joined numerous lawmakers and community leaders in commending the introduction of these lights along Third Avenue between Stewart and Virginia, as well as in the Chinatown-International District along South King Street.
These additions are part of the Spark Block lighting project, a key initiative within Mayor Harrell's executive order aimed at revitalizing downtown Seattle. The order seeks to address issues like crime, drug trafficking, and provide enhanced treatment options in the downtown corridor.These lighting enhancements are part of a broader effort to create a safer and more welcoming environment for residents, workers, and visitors in downtown Seattle. The Seattle Department of Transportation expressed hope that the new lighting will encourage further investment from local business owners and residents. Olu Dixon, the owner of a cooperative shop situated directly beneath the newly installed lights, echoed this sentiment. 'People are gonna feel invited to come over here. It’s gonna be great,' Dixon shared with KOMO News. He anticipates that the increased illumination will lead to more foot traffic along Third Avenue, providing a much-needed 'spark' to the small business owners who operate in his space. 'We want to be able to put money in their pocket,' Dixon emphasized. 'We want them to be at school and get a notification that somebody bought one of their products.'These 'brighter' times coincide with a noticeable decline in crime along Third Avenue. City data reveals a 27% reduction in violent crime over the past year, along with a 14% decrease in emergency calls. The lights will be operational year-round and can be dynamically adjusted to various colors to celebrate neighborhood and citywide events. This includes observances like the Lunar New Year, local sporting events held at nearby stadiums, and the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
Seattle Crime Reduction Downtown Revitalization Lighting Project Community Investment
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